KLM has announced a new Covid-19 testing protocol for crew leaving the airport in countries not on the Dutch government’s list of ‘safe countries’.
The carrier had threatened to suspend all long-haul operations, over fears that new testing requirements introduced in the Netherlands could have resulted in crew being forced to quarantine overseas.
But in a statement KLM said:
“After constructive consultations with the Dutch National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), KLM has developed a safe alternative testing protocol for crews leaving the airport in countries that are not on the governmental list of safe countries.
“This includes an alternative whereby, among other things, the rapid antigen test for this crew will be arranged at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol before departing from and after returning to the Netherlands. In addition, there are local safety guidelines at the destinations. The government has indicated that this protocol meets the requirements.”
However the carrier has implemented a temporary ban on flights from the UK, South Africa and South America as of January 23, in line with governmental efforts to curb the spread of new, more infectious variants of Covid-19.
“Keeping flight operations running in a safe and responsible manner is and remains KLM’s priority, also since the Covid-19 outbreak in early 2020,” said the carrier.
“This has enabled us to maintain essential travel, repatriation and the transport of necessary cargo so far. In addition, KLM has taken numerous measures on board, such as HEPA filters, facemasks and adjustment of the onboard service.
“The safety and health of our customers and staff have the highest priority for KLM. KLM also wants to continue to contribute to the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic. To this end, consultation remains necessary on effective and practicable appropriate measures for aviation, taking into account international agreements.”
